Tag: safety gear

Boating safety tips for smooth sailing

Keep your trip above board.

Cool water is a great relief as summer heats up. So, many people take to the rivers, lakes, and oceans on all sorts of vessels. While this usually results in a fun day out, never underestimate the power of water. Accidents happen. Fortunately, a little preparation and education can minimize risks for you, your friends, your family, and your water-loving pets. Here’s what you need to know, with tips and accident stats from the U.S. Coast Guard and other venerable bodies. Whether you’re piloting a motorboat, pontoon boat, canoe, or kayak, reduce your chances of collision, drowning, and other water-related hazards with these tips.

This avalanche safety gear could help you avoid danger on a climbing trip

Pack these essentials before your next snowy adventure.

Snow lovers adore the quiet of a white-blanketed landscape and the glisten of sunlight on ice crystals. So beautiful. So serene. Until an avalanche hits. Hopefully, it will never happen to you. But if you participate in winter sports, avalanche intel is essential. Protect yourself with the right avalanche safety gear and a few helpful tips.

First, don’t try to outrun an avalanche. Instead, run perpendicular to its path to try to avoid the middle of it. If you’re stuck in its way, grab onto a tree or something else solid and hold on. Clench your teeth, and keep your mouth closed. If the avalanche does catch you, try to stay on top with a swimming motion.

We know. It’s terrifying. But you can prepare for the worst by bringing some of this avalanche safety gear on your winter expeditions.

Hi-vis and reflective gear to keep you safe while running and hiking

Make sure they see you coming with the right gear.

Autumn has lots of selling points — the golden leaves, crisp air, cozy sweaters, and pumpkin-spiced everything. But those shorter, darker days can really put a crimp in your outdoor plans. Not only is it hard to see where you’re going, but it’s also hard to be seen. Your early morning run or after-work bike ride calls for extra gear to keep you warm and ensure you’re visible to motorists. Check out some of these excellent products that can help keep you safer as you run, bike, walk your dog, and otherwise stay outdoors through the long, dark fall and winter seasons.

Protect your skull with these high-quality bike helmets

Don’t lose your head — protect it with a helmet.

Biking is an eco-friendly and healthy way to get around — especially if you protect your precious brain and skull with a well-fitting bike helmet. If you fall off your bike, you’ll want a good helmet between your head and the asphalt. Statistics show that a helmet can make the difference between a minor accident and a catastrophe.

Remember that a helmet is not forever — you need to refresh your helmet wardrobe periodically. Incidents can impact your helmet, and the damage might not be obvious. Worn straps, cracks in the shell, and missing pads make your helmet less effective. Here are some durable and stylish candidates for your new favorite helmet.